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shAARP Talk: Observations from AARP

(Category: Lifestyle)

Alejandra Owens | August 26, 2008 | 9:02 AM
Alejandra Owens

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While attention on America's aging population has focused on the 70 million people who comprise the Baby Boomer generation, another aging population is quietly entering its older years. That is the 45 million pets the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says are ages seven or older--placing them squarely alongside their human-boomer counterparts. In fact, a seven-year-old dog or cat is roughly 45 human years old, putting it at the youngest end of today's Boomer spectrum.

Nationally recognized veterinarian, author and Baby Boomer Marty Becker, DVM, offers five common health problems to be watching for:

  1. Weight Gain
  2. Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
  3. Stiff Joints and Slower Movement
  4. Changes in Coat and Skin
  5. Eye Abnormalities

Check out the The Merck/Merial Manual for Pet Health for information on how to care for your pets at all ages and stages of their lives, and learn how to recognize changes associated with aging.

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